Paul Stands Up for Rural Texas Youth

FOR RELEASE: February 16, 2000

Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Ron Paul introduced the "Agriculture Education Freedom Act." The bill was written to address the undue taxation of students who participate in programs such as 4-H or the Future Farmers of America. Currently, students are forced to pay federal income tax when they sell livestock raised as part of an agriculture education program.

"These kids are trying to better themselves, and what does Congress do?" Paul asked. "We pick on these students by taxing them. They are not even old enough to vote, yet we are forcing them to pay taxes! Whatever happened to no taxation without representation? It's no wonder our young people have become so cynical of the government."

Paul says these taxes discourage young people from participating in agricultural education programs, and they are another example of a growing federal government that punishes responsible students for preparing for the future.

Paul said, "It is truly amazing that with all the talk in this Congress over the need to increase the size of the federal government 'for the children' that we would continue to tax students who are trying to do the right thing and further their education."

"It is time the federal government stop taxing our youngsters who are trying to earn money to go to college through 4-H, FAA, and other agricultural education programs," said Paul. "I call on every member of Congress to join me in supporting the Agriculture Education Freedom Act."